Victoria’s biosecurity system will be strengthened with a $6.1 million investment by the Victorian Government for projects that help prevent, monitor, and control diseases in cattle, sheep, goat, swine and honeybee industries.

Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence recently announced that 16 organisations will receive grants to deliver 38 projects that provide ground breaking solutions and use emerging technologies to improve livestock biosecurity in Victoria.

The Livestock Biosecurity Funds Grant Program reinvests funds raised through duties on the sale of livestock and beekeeper registration fees back into the sector to help meet emerging biosecurity challenges head on.

Warragul based Veterinary Support Services will receive $1.4 million to deliver a 2 year Victorian Livestock Veterinary Scholarship program.

This includes clinical supervision and training that provides early-career veterinarians with skills, experience, networks and support to launch and sustain a livestock veterinary career in regional Victoria.

Western Plains Pork has been awarded $155,000 to run a pilot program to map contact between feral and domestic pigs to understand disease transmission risks.

This program will enhance participation and engagement from land managers – improving the industry’s preparedness and reduce the impact of diseases on the Victorian pig industry.

The Livestock Biosecurity Funds Grant Program was established collaboratively between Agriculture Victoria and the 4 Livestock Compensation Advisory Committees, representing a shared responsibility between government and industry to boost Victoria’s biosecurity and provide real benefits to industry.

Minister Spence has also appointed Chairs and members with a broad range of industry skills and experience to the four Livestock Compensation Advisory Committees to provide advice on the administration of these funds.

For a full list of the 2024 Livestock Biosecurity Funds Grant Program recipients as well as Livestock Compensation Advisory Committee members can visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestockbiosecurityfunds.

Words: Agriculture Victoria. Image: Supplied

The beautiful Coliban Springs private garden at Redesdale will open to the public over two days in October as part of the Open Gardens Victoria scheme.

Once a sheep paddock, this amazing mature garden is full of native plants, many propagated by the owner.

Located at 866 Coliban Park Rd, Redesdale, it will be open from 10am-4.30pm on Saturday October 19 and Sunday October 2.

This large garden is drought tolerant and a wonderful home for birds. The landscape is undulating with paths leading to deep beds with massed plantings and to quiet areas to sit and look at the garden.

There is also a large lake that is home to water birds including crakes and rails and with places to sit and admire the view.

The many garden sculptures are placed either in open spaces or near the lawn. A children’s play area is integrated into the garden plan.

Another planting surprise is the row of grass trees with a backdrop of a forest of casuarinas.

Highlights of this garden include Beryl’s Deck overlooking the lake, the grass trees with casuarina forest and the peacefulness as one walks around the many paths in this large garden.

Some of the proceeds from this garden opening will be donated to the Bridge Connection Community Newspaper and the Redesdale and District Association.

Further details are available on the Open Gardens Victoria website with tickets able to be purchased online through Trybooking, or on the day.

Beekeepers are being reminded to report and treat notifiable diseases after a large scale commercial western Victoria apiarist was found guilty of failure to manage American foulbrood (AFB) in hives.

Agriculture Victoria prosecuted apiarist Sharon Oakley in Horsham Magistrates Court on Monday 4 August on 6 charges under the Livestock Disease Control Act 1994 and Livestock Disease Control Regulations 2017.

The apiarist operation was heavily focused on pollination contracts and hives were regularly moved between South Australia and Victoria.

The charges included a failure to notify Agriculture Victoria of the presence or suspicion of disease, failure to take action to control diseased hives, and exposing hives infected with disease, allowing bees access to the hives which had not been disinfected.

Agriculture Victoria officers served isolation and destruction orders and provided education on good biosecurity practices dating back to March 2022.

On one visit in 2023, inspection of hives revealed that 56% of the 345 hives present were found to be infected with AFB.

After failing to follow Agriculture Victoria’s direction to destroy infected hives and hiveware, Agriculture Victoria disposed of the materials to manage the biosecurity risk to the industry.

The court found in favour of Agriculture Victoria, ordering the defendant to be of good behaviour for 12 months and pay a $500 fine.

Apiary Biosecurity Manager Nikki Jones said the case should serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible beekeeping.

‘American Foulbrood is an endemic, highly contagious, notifiable disease within Victoria that results in the death of the hive,’ Ms Jones said.

‘There is no treatment for AFB. As the disease weakens the hive, it becomes susceptible to robbing by other colonies resulting in the rapid spread of the disease within apiaries and to surrounding apiaries. Therefore, the early detection and management of the disease is vital to reduce the risk of spread.’

When purchasing used equipment beekeepers need to be aware of the risk of AFB infected equipment. To ensure the equipment is safe to be used in an apiary it must be irradiated.

More information on American foulbrood is on the Agriculture Victoria website.

Words & Image: Agriculture Victoria

Local garden lovers are girding themselves for a special Open Gardens Victoria event coming up next month on Saturday, September 28, at the historic Clunes Presbytery and Garden.

In fact two sessions of the Talk, Tour and Tea event at the Clunes Presbytery House and Garden are scheduled on the day with the first from 10-12noon and the next from 2-4pm.

It’s a rare opportunity to enjoy a fine tea experience at the Clunes Presbytery built circa 1905 and explore the Edwardian house and garden situated at 3 Hannah Street, Clunes.  

The event includes a house and garden tour with a focus on the use of herbal and medicinal plants, a chance to purchase unique plants and vintage wares and most importantly, savour a blend of tea with cakes and biscuits in the comfort of a home furnished with an elegance and warmth of the period.  

Some of the proceeds from this event will will go to Paws for Diabetes with further details for bookings available through the Open Gardens Victoria website and also via Trybooking online.

The Hepburn Shire Council has adopted a new Reconciliation Action Plan at its meeting last Tuesday evening.

The new Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (or RAP for short) is part of a four-step reconciliation model that seeks to build on the foundations of the first stage, Reflect RAP.

The plans are intended to enable the council to gain a deeper understanding of its sphere of influence, to then establish the best approaches to advancing reconciliation within the shire.

Mayor, Cr Brian Hood, said the council has worked hard to bring this second stage of the plan to fruition.

“We will continue to work with DJAARA on shire projects, with a view to developing and utilising opportunities for procurement and employment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses where possible,” he said.

“By engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Council expects to strengthen its relationships with them, and continue to develop strategies for further reconciliation,” said Cr Hood.

Innovate RAP adheres to Reconciliation Australia’s guidelines for a four-step overall plan, which will be implemented over the next two years.

Following the endorsement last week the council will finalise the Innovate RAP with Reconciliation Australia with the plan to then be made available following this process.

Local job-seekers are being encouraged to register for the Bendigo Jobs Expo 2024 taking place from 12pm to 2pm on Wednesday September 4 at Red Energy Arena, West Bendigo.

Supported by the City of Greater Bendigo, Workforce Australia Local Jobs Bendigo, Red Energy Arena and Be.Bendigo, the Bendigo Jobs Expo 2024 will bring together up to 70 exhibitors from the region who are actively recruiting staff.

Exhibitors include the City, Bendigo Health, Golden City Support Services, Goodstart Early Learning, Agnico Eagle Fosterville Gold Mine, Department of Defence, Deloitte, Hazeldenes Chicken, Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, Bendigo and District Aboriginal Cooperative, Australian Signals Directorate, Department of Justice and Community Safety, Bunnings Warehouse, Ambulance Victoria, Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, La Trobe University, My Village Carers, Leed Engineering and Construction and many more.

Bendigo City Director Strategy and Growth Rachel Lee said the Bendigo Jobs Expo was a one-stop shop for many central Victorian businesses to connect directly with local job-seekers of all ages.

“A thriving workforce strengthens the region’s economy and supports local businesses now and in the future,” Ms Lee said.

“We are expecting over 400 job-seekers, so this is a fantastic opportunity to meet with high profile employers.

“Jobseekers will be able to explore employment opportunities from a variety of industries and sectors.

“Attendees keen to upskill can learn about training schemes and available apprenticeships on offer.

“The Bendigo Jobs Expo is not to be missed if you are looking for your next job or an exciting new career, so I encourage you to register today.”

Chris Booth from Workforce Australia Local Jobs said companies were keen to talk through opportunities with job-seekers.

“We know that many companies at the expo will be actively recruiting new staff and there will be onsite interviews happening too,” Mr Booth said.

“You may be seeking a new job opportunity, a gap year from education, or want a different career pathway.

“Perhaps you are looking for a temporary, casual or part-time role or returning to work. Word is out that this expo is a great way to find the right job for you.”

Expo highlights:

• Up to 70 exhibitors including
• Onsite interviews with potential employers
• Virtual Reality Technology Corner with Goldfields LLEN
• Career advice on resumes, mock interview tips
• La Trobe University robotics presentation
• TAFE immersive simulators
• The Bendigo Jobs Expo 2024 will host a special school hour from 11am to 12pm with over 300 students attending

Known to quite a few as the ‘ukulele queen of the Bellarine, Sarah Carroll and her fabulous band The Big Fuss are headed to Creswick to launch her new album NQR&B next month. 

Already receiving heaps of critical acclaim, radio play and sales of the gorgeous fairy floss vinyl, the album features Carroll’s strongest songs to date with stellar performances from Fenn and George on drums and bass, and ace guitarists Shannon Bourne and Leigh Ivin.

Carroll and The Big Fuss, with special guest on the night, Stef Duzel, play Odessa At Leavers Hotel from 7pm on Saturday September 14.

The City of Ballarat says it’s taken an important step toward helping accommodate more than 55,000 new residents that are forecast to be living in the regional city in coming years. 

Ballarat City Council received a report on the final Housing Strategy and Growth Areas Framework Plan at its August Planning meeting.

Councillors discussed the reports and resolved to adopt the strategy and framework plan.  

As a planning authority, the City of Ballarat has a responsibility to plan housing growth for at least a 15-year period across the municipality. Plans to ensure housing in both infill and greenfield areas will now be rolled out.  

Following the adoption of the Housing Strategy and Growth Areas Framework Plan, the council discussed the importance of progressing the implementation of the strategies into the Ballarat Planning Scheme to assist in managing the challenges and opportunities facing Ballarat’s population and housing growth.  

A resolution was made to seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning to prepare a Ballarat Planning Scheme Amendment to implement the recommendations of the Ballarat Housing Strategy and Growth Areas Framework Plan into the planning scheme. 

Councillors acknowledged that further strategic work is required to bring both documents into full effect.   

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Des Hudson said both documents are vital to planning for how Ballarat will grow to accommodate more people in both growth areas and existing areas over coming years.  

YARN Australia are holding an event in Glenlyon today Sunday 25th August.

YARN Australia is a social enterprise focused on creating relationships and connections through storytelling between Indigenous Aboriginal Australians and all people, with a vision of unity for Australia.

Today’s ticketed event takes place from 11.30am to 1.30pm with more information available from yarnaustralia.com and bookings limited to 100 attendees.

A new housing project taking shape in Daylesford aims to provide long-term affordable housing for women and children at risk of falling into homelessness.

Women’s Property Iniatives (WPI) has recently acquired four new homes at “The Village” in Middleton Field to provide good quality, affordable longer term rental housing for women and children in the Daylesford region.

WPI is a not-for-profit community housing provider which has been creating new beginnings for women and children at risk of homelessness for over 25 years.

On any given night 122,494 people in Australia are experiencing homelessness and women are the fastest growing cohort of people experiencing homelessness in Australia, accounting for more than 80% of the recent increase in homelessness.

In 2023, more women than men in all age groups other than children under the age of nine sought assistance from specialist homelessness services.

Approaching the task of providing housing first, WPI prides itself on managing a portfolio of well located, well designed and sustainable homes including a mixture of apartments, townhouses and houses to cater for the diverse needs of the women and children housed by WPI.

Alongside the provision of permanent affordable housing, WPI also offer access to support networks and ongoing advocacy, building secure futures for women and children in need.

Located in Daylesford’s newest neighbourhood, Middleton Field, the homes at “The Village” have been designed by Melbourne based sustainable architect Breathe.

Civil works at the site of The Village have already started with construction of the homes planned to commence later this year through a single appointed builder.

Ballarat based developer Hygge Property started working with WPI in 2020 towards the future delivery of essential new homes in regional centres including Daylesford. Hygge Property is working with Belle Property, Daylesford.

Funding for the four homes at The Village has been secured by WPI through the Big Housing Build, an initiative of Homes Victoria – a government agency building and managing social affordable housing across Victoria and some of WPI’s generous partners.

WPI in Daylesford is a dedicated and impactful organisation committed to making a difference in ending women’s homelessness.

National Homelessness Week, held each August, raises awareness of homelessness in Australia and the importance of the delivery of social and affordable housing as a long-term solution.

The 2024 theme of “Homelessness Action Now” is a call to build community, private sector and government support to help end homelessness across Australia.

Words: Based on a supplied media release

Victorian fire services are recommending homeowners prioritise cleaning their chimneys before this winter is out, following 70 residential chimney fires last year.

In the last five years, CFA also responded to more than 530 residential chimney fires.

CFA Deputy Chief Officer Adrian Gutsche said before warming their homes this winter, Victorians should simply use a torch to regularly check for soot build-up or obstructions to reduce the risk of a fire starting from the fireplace or wood heater.

“Chimneys and flues should be cleaned annually. Always use a fire screen in front of an open fire and keep wood and other combustibles at least one metre from fire,” DCO Gutsche said.

“Our latest statistics show most fatal fires start in sleeping and living areas, so for your family’s best protection, smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, living and hallway area.”

FRV Deputy Commissioner Community Safety Joshua Fischer said maintaining your working fireplace is essential for home safety.

“Victorians who have a fireplace at home are making use of them a lot at this time of year. Proper maintenance ensures they don’t pose a risk to your family home,” DC Fischer said.

“Extinguish your fire and any open flames, such as candles, before going to bed or leaving the house. Check that the fire embers are cold before disposing of them.”

Victorians are reminded that long-life battery or interconnected smoke alarms located in all bedrooms, hallways and living areas of the home can save lives for as little as $20.

The Hepburn Shire Council has launched a free online business and community directory showcasing a wide range of services, goods and attractions available within its boundaries.

The new online resource showcases the diverse range of businesses, services and community organisations thriving within the wider local community.

From quaint cafes to artisanal boutiques, from essential services, local trades to recreational groups, the directory offers a one-stop destination for residents and visitors to discover and engage with a large variety of what the Hepburn Shire has to offer. 

Mayor, Cr Brian Hood, said that he was excited to introduce the new online directory, which represents a significant milestone in the council’s ongoing commitment to support local businesses and community initiatives.  

“The directory not only promotes economic vitality by connecting residents with local businesses, but also strengthens community cohesion by highlighting the important contributions of community organisations,” said Cr Hood. 

Key features of the directory include comprehensive listings to browse a wide range of businesses categories, services and organisations for easy navigation and a user-friendly navigation interface.  

The launch of the online directory aligns with the council’s broader vision to promote economic resilience, foster community connections and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.  

“By providing a centralised platform for businesses and community organisations to showcase their offerings, the directory serves as a driver for growth, innovation and collaboration within our community,” said Cr Hood. 

Local businesses and community groups or service providers will need to create an account and then submit their details, including their logo, location and contact details. Once approved these will be published on the local directory. 

To explore or create a free listing on the Hepburn Shire Council’s Business and Community Directory, those interested can visit www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/Council/Find-a-local-directory . 

The Hepburn Shire Council has launched its inaugural Rainbow Action Plan (RAP)for LGBTIQA+ inclusion.

State ministers Harriet Shing and Mary-Anne Thomas officially launched the RAP in Daylesford on Tuesday.

Mayor, Cr Brian Hood, said it was a pleasure to host Minister Shing and Minister Thomas to launch and celebrate this important plan.

“The plan commits Council to actions that will foster a safer and more welcoming community for all LGBTIQA+ people,” Cr Hood said.

“We recognise and celebrate the important contributions that our LGBTIQA+ people, businesses and visitors bring to the life of our shire. Together, we share an inclusive, resilient, vibrant, sustainable, innovative and diverse community,” he said.

The plan will help to ensure that all LGBTIQA+ people feel supported, connected, visible and safe in our community. It will also guide the council in providing an inclusive workplace for its LGBTIQA+ staff and volunteers.

“Through this Rainbow Action Plan, Council re-commits to achieving equality for LGBTIQA+ people. We will work to end LGBTIQA+ discrimination, and we affirm and defend the fundamental human rights of LGBTIQA+ people,” Cr Hood said.

Hepburn Shire Council is one of only 18 local government authorities in Victoria to adopt an LGBTIQA+ Action Plan.

Those keen to read a copy of the RAP can visit Rainbow-Action-Plan.

Work is soon to begin to renovate the historic day basin at Daylesford’s Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens.

The Day Basin, which historically served as Daylesford’s town reservoir, is set to be transformed into an attractive water feature for the popular local gardens.

The Basin is located at the base of the historic Pioneer Memorial Tower near the Wombat Hill car park.

The project has been championed by the Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Garden who are providing some of the funding towards the project.

The Victorian State Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund and the Hepburn Shire Council are also helping to fund the project which is a key one for the Friends group.

Daylesford playwright, theatre maker and social worker, Rebecca Lister (pictured above) will collaborate with writer, visual artist, poet and critic Eloise Grills to adapt Elouise’s 2022 illustrated memoir “big beautiful female theory” into a play.

The project has been funded by an $18,000 grant from the state government’s Creative Projects Fund and will take Grills’ work from the page to the stage enabling a far greater audience to engage with this ground breaking material.

The book is a feminist exploration based on Elouise’s personal experience, of how fat bodies have been idealised, fetishised and demonised and the impact of this in a society obsessed with the narrow appearance ideal.

Beck, was putting together a creative writing program as part of her job as a counsellor for Eating Disorders Victoria and wanted someone to speak on body image.

Her search located Elouise who happened to be living in Daylesford at the time. Beck read the book, thought there was material for a stage production, and a friendship was born.

The two will work together over 11 months to develop a production draft and they plan to hold a public reading in Daylesford for industry professionals and others in May 2025.

Eloise Grills, now Ballan-based, is an award-winning artist and writer whose illustrated memoir ‘big beautiful female theory’ was published in Australia by Affirm Press in 2022.

The book was shortlisted for the 2023 Stella Prize, shortlisted for the 2023 Indie Book Award for Illustrated Nonfiction, highly commended in the 2023 Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards for Nonfiction and highly commended by the judges of the 2021 Peter Blazey Fellowship.

Rebecca Lister is the co-artistic Director of arts company Anvil Productions and a counsellor at Eating Disorders Victoria.

She is also the monthly MC of intergenerational storytelling show Generation Women and the monthly host of live chat show ‘On the couch with Beck Lister’.

Her book, co-written with Tony Kelly, ‘Growing Pineapples in the Outback’ was published by UQPress in 2020.